Powell Gaining Valuable Experience Overseas

Libs Forward Checks In From Turkey

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Forward Nicole Powell (Courtesy of FIBAEurope.com)

Nicole Powell has been enjoying a successful stint this off-season in Turkey. And although her playoff run with Fenerbahce will delay her arrival in New York, the experience she's gaining in Istanbul will be extremely valuable and ease the transition into her seventh WNBA season.

Through 19 Turkish League games, the Libs forward has averaged 26.3 mpg, 12.0 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 1.7 apg and 1.1 spg. Her outstanding play has helped contribute to Fenerbahce's undefeated record in league play. In the Euroleague, the club reached the Quarter Final round of the playoffs, and Powell logged 32.4 mpg, 15.8 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.6 apg and 2.1 spg through 14 match-ups.

We check in with Powell to find out about her overseas journey.

What has been your favorite part of playing in Turkey?
My favorite part about being over here is the time I've been able to spend with my Dad. He's been able to stay an extended time and we've had a great time living and enjoying the "overseas" experience together.

How often does your team practice?
We usually have one practice daily, since we're in the midst of playoffs. Sometimes we have an extra work-out scheduled in the morning for lifting and shooting.

How often are you traveling?
We were traveling quite a bit when we were competing in both the Turkish League and the Euroleague, but now with only a few games left, we travel once a week.

Do you notice a difference between American and Turkish basketball fans?
The Turkish fans are a bit more creative with continuous chanting and songs when they're rooting for their teams. Regardless of the culture, they enjoy fun, fast-paced basketball just like fans in the States.

What has been your team's key to success this season?
I think the key has been our depth and talent. We've got some of the best Turkish players along with a great mix of foreigners.

What role do you play for the team?
My role has been to be a consistent threat and scorer from the outside.

Is that role any different than what you have played in the past for Sacramento & Charlotte?
Not really. My role's definitely altered a bit from team to team, but here it's pretty straight forward.

Have you been working on any particular part of your game this off-season? If so, what and have you noticed an improvement?
I've been working on just being sharper with fundamental stuff like passing and boxing out, and have also been getting a lot of shots up lately.

What are you most looking forward to once you arrive in New York and meet your new team-mates?
I'm definitely looking forward to meeting everyone, and am most excited about getting out on the court with the team and learning how to play and mesh with them.

Catch Nicole with the Liberty all summer long at Madison Square Garden. Season ticket plans and individual tickets are on sale by clicking here or visiting The Garden Box Office.